Radiology Department Of Hospital Research Articles

Lung Ultrasound-A Supplementary Tool for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Children.

There are logistic problems in obtaining adequate microbiological samples for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in children, globally. Most studies on ultrasound have evaluated mediastinal nodes in children with tuberculosis (TB), but very few studies are available on lung ultrasound (LUS) appearances in proven PTB. To study the LUS appearances in children with microbiologically proven PTB and to assess the inter-observer agreement. Thirty children with microbiologically proven PTB, were evaluated prospectively on LUS and chest radiograph (CR) in Radiology department of a tertiary care hospital, from November 2019 to November 2021. CR was interpreted by an experienced Radiologist (R2); LUS was conducted by a Radiology resident (R1), who was blinded to CR findings; and findings were recorded. Archived static images/videos of LUS were interpreted by R2 after a month, to avoid bias; and findings were recorded. Composite LUS finding of either consolidation and subpleural nodule (SUN) was detected in 29/30 (96.7%) children with lower zone predominance (70%). Miliary pattern was observed on LUS in 11/30 (33.3%) children, but their CR was normal. Consolidation was detected on LUS in a significantly higher proportion of children (83.3%) than on CR (43.3%). Inter-observer agreement calculated for detection of consolidation and pleural effusion was k = 0.88, for B lines k = 0.79, confluent B lines k = 0.75, miliary nodules k = 0.70 and SUN k = 0.57. We conclude that in low-resource endemic areas, LUS by virtue of being non -invasive and not using ionizing radiation, can be a useful supplementary tool in the diagnosis of childhood PTB.

Risk Estimation of Carcinogenic and Noncarcinogenic Diseases from Radiation for Medical X-ray Workers.

The objective of this paper is to construct a follow-up cohort of medical x-ray workers and analyze the risk estimates of radiation-induced carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic diseases induced by chronic low-dose ionizing radiation exposure in the follow-up cohort. A fixed cohort study was used. A total of 159 medical x-ray workers working in radiology departments of hospitals in Gansu Province from 1950 to 1980 were selected as the radiology group, and 149 medical workers in internal medicine, surgery, and other departments who had not engaged in radiology work at the same hospital were selected as the control group. A fifth follow-up survey was also conducted. Information on personal radiation exposure history, lifestyle and morbidity was collected for 310 medical x-ray workers and the control group. Malignant tumors and noncancerous diseases (cataracts, diabetes, aplastic anemia, hypertension, coronary heart disease, cerebral apoplexy, etc.) were used as endpoints to analyze the risk estimates of carcinogenic and noncancerous diseases caused by low-dose radiation. There were 14 patients with malignant tumors, 8 in the radiation group and 6 in the control group (RR=1.25); 11 cases of cataract, radiation group, 8 cases, control group, 3 cases, RR:2.50; 18 patients with diabetes mellitus, 12 in the radiation group and 6 in the control group (RR = 1.87); 25 hypertensive patients, 17 in the radiation group and 8 in the control group (RR = 1.99); 23 patients with CHD, 12 in the radiation group and 11 in the control group (RR = 1.02); and 15 cerebral apoplexy patients, 5 in the radiation group and 10 in the control group (RR=0.47).Compared with the control group, the differences were statistically significant (P<0.01). The risk factors for CR and noncarcinogenic diseases associated with low-dose radiation were cataracts (RR: 2.50) > hypertension (RR: 1.99) > diabetes (RR: 1.87) > malignancy (RR: 1.25) > CHD (RR: 1.02) > cerebral apoplexy (RR: 1.02). 0.47. Compared with those in the control group, medical x-ray workers had an increased risk of developing malignant tumors and cataracts, which may be related to occupational exposure to chronic low-dose ionizing radiation. Therefore, radiation workers should pay attention to the optimization of protection in radiation work practice. The incidences of hypertension and diabetes are increased, and the incidences of CHD are basically the same; in particular, the incidence of cerebral apoplexy is significantly reduced, indicating that cerebral apoplexy has a certain protective effect on medical x-ray workers.

Internal Jugular Vein Fenestration and Duplication.

The internal jugular vein (IJV) is considered one of the prominent veins of the neck. It corresponds to the continuation of the sigmoid sinus and joins the subclavian vein to form the brachiocephalic vein. A retrospective study of 200 computed tomography angiographies was performed at the Larissa University Hospital Radiology Department, where the IJV variant morphology was investigated. Three unilateral cases of IJV duplication were observed (0.75%) in three patients (2 on the left and 1 on the right side). One case of IJV fenestration was identified (0.25%) in one patient on the left side. IJV duplication and fenestration are rare aberrations reported in several case reports, while their incidence has been barely reported. Knowledge of IJV variant anatomy (common and uncommon morphological variants) is paramount for head and neck surgeons and anesthesiologists to avoid iatrogenic injury.

Radiographers’ perspectives on immobilisation and restraint mechanisms in paediatric radiography

IntroductionThe utilisation of immobilisation or restraint during paediatric radiography is a multifactorial issue with associated legal and ethical considerations. Current practice regularly presents challenges for radiographers, with a notable absence of any professional best-practice guidance. This study investigated radiographers’ perspectives in Ireland on the use of immobilisation or restraint methods and the factors influencing these choices and aimed to fill the 20-year gap in European radiographers’ perspectives gaining an up-to-date understanding and contribute to the global conversation in this regard. MethodsAn anonymous online survey design was constructed using the Google Forms platform and distributed to hospital radiology departments across the Southern region of Ireland. Additionally, a short survey was send to the head of the nine radiology departments to audit the existing availability of immobilisation and/or restraint devices for paediatric radiography. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were undertaken. Bar charts were utilised where appropriate to display trends. ResultsOne hundered and three responses were received. The majority of radiographers reported using immobilisation (95 %) or restraint (89 %) techniques during paediatric radiography, although 70 % acknowledged the lack of training regarding restraint techniques. However, 93 % reported trying alternative techniques such as distraction and negotiation to avoid immobilisation or restraint. A desire for further guidance and training was reported, with 80 % of respondents noting training as essential or potentially beneficial. ConclusionsAmbiguity remains surrounding the distinction between the terms “restraint” and “immobilisation” in paediatric radiography. Radiographers' use of restraint and immobilisation during paediatric radiography is influenced by the child's age, distress level, radiation protection and safety, and the ability of the child to understand instructions. Appropriate up-to-date guidelines and training would be recommended to clarify terminology and promote the safe practice of restraint and immobilisation during paediatric radiography.

Burnout crisis in Chinese radiology: will artificial intelligence help?

To assess the correlation between the use of artificial intelligence (AI) software and burnout in the radiology departments of hospitals in China. This study employed a cross-sectional research design. From February to July 2024, an online survey was conducted among radiologists and technicians at 68 public hospitals in China. The survey utilized general information questionnaires, the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) scale, and a custom-designed AI usage questionnaire. This study analyzed the correlation between AI software usage and occupational burnout, and general information was included as a control variable in a multiple linear regression analysis. The analysis of survey data from 522 radiology staff revealed that 389 (74.5%) had used AI and that 252 (48.3%) had used it for more than 12 months. Only 133 (25.5%) had not yet adopted AI. Among the respondents, radiologists had a higher AI usage rate (82.0%) than technicians (only 59.9%). Furthermore, 344 (65.9%) of the respondents exhibited signs of burnout. The duration of AI software usage was significantly negatively correlated with overall burnout, yielding a Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.112 (p < 0.05). Multiple stepwise regression analysis revealed that salary satisfaction, night shifts, duration of AI usage, weekly working hours, having children, and professional rank were the main factors influencing occupational burnout (all p < 0.05). AI has the potential to significantly help mitigate occupational burnout among radiology staff. This study reveals the key role that AI plays in assisting radiology staff in their work. Questions Although we are aware that radiology staff burnout is intensifying, there is no quantitative research assessing whether artificial intelligence software can mitigate this occupational burnout. Findings The longer staff use deep learning-based artificial intelligence imaging software, the less severe their occupational burnout tends to be. This result is particularly evident among radiologists. Clinical relevance In China, radiologists and technicians experience high burnout rates. Even if there is an artificial intelligence usage controversy, encouraging the use of artificial intelligence software in radiology helps prevent and alleviate this occupational burnout.

OGC SO36 - Complications of palliative oesophageal cancer stent insertion: Audit for a five year period

Abstract Background Oesophageal stents are commonly used for the palliative treatment of inoperable oesophageal malignancy[1]. Stenting of the oesophagus may provide safe and quickly effective management for late-stage disease symptoms. However, there are common complications associated with the oesophageal stents. This audit looks at the types of early and delayed complications from oesophageal stenting, specifically for malignancy. We aim to stratify the types of complication, association between complications and the type of stent used, and the frequency of repeat stenting or repositioning. This will provide patients with better expectations of the complications and compare our practice against published international standards Method All fluoroscopy guided stent insertions between 1/1/2019 and 31/12/2023 for oesophageal malignancy were requested from the hospital radiology department. 101 patients were included for analysis. Their basic demographics were obtained, as well as a disease profile including tumour histology, staging and whether they underwent radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Complications of the stent insertion were then logged. The number of times stents were replaced or repositioned were noted. The type of stent, size parameters, features such as covering, antimigration device and anti-reflux valve were also assessed. In addition, any hospital admissions related to stent complications were also recorded. Results Of 101 patients, the median age was 75, with a higher proportion of male patients ( 71%). After stent fitting there was a median survival length of 94 days. 45% of patients had complications related to the stent. Stent migration was the most frequent complication, 14% of patients experienced stent migration into the stomach, which required repositioning or restenting. Both middle and lower oesophagus stents had equal complication rate. 25% of patients were reported to have overgrowth of tumour affecting the stent, and there was no significant difference in those fitted with a covered stent, meant to reduce overgrowth complications. Conclusion The complications directly resulting from oesophageal stents may adversely affect the palliation of oesophageal cancer patients. In this cohort, the most commonly occurring complications were migration of the stent, immediate symptoms after insertion, and overgrowth of the tumour. Although overgrowth of tumour is part of the disease progression, in many cases it made retrieval of the existing stent or reinsertion more difficult. Our results found no significant difference for complication rates between the different stents, nor the inclusion of antimigration devices. There were no deaths directly due to the stent and no oesophageal perforations reported.

The effectiveness of deep learning model in differentiating benign and malignant pulmonary nodules on spiral CT.

Pulmonary nodule, one of the most common clinical phenomena, is an irregular circular lesion with a diameter of ⩽ 3 cm in the lungs, which can be classified as benign or malignant. Differentiating benign and malignant pulmonary nodules has an essential effect on clinical medical diagnosis. To explore the clinical value and diagnostic effects of the lung nodule classification and segmentation algorithm based on deep learning in differentiating benign and malignant pulmonary nodules. A deep learning model with a fine-grained classification manner for the discrimination of pulmonary models in Dr.Wise Lung Analyzer. This study retrospectively enrolled 120 patients with pulmonary nodules detected by chest spiral CT from March 2021 to September 2022 in the radiology department of Ninghai First Hospital. The DL-based method and physicians' accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity results were compared using the pathological results as the gold standard. The ROC curve of the deep learning model was plotted, and the AUCs were calculated. On 120 CT images, pathologically diagnosed 81 malignant nodules and 122 benign modules. The AUCs of radiologists' diagnostic approach and DL-base method for differentiating patients were 0.62 and 0.81; radiologists' diagnostic approach and DL-base method achieved AUCs of 0.75 and 0.90 for benign and malignant pulmonary nodules differentiate. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity with the deep learning model were 73.33%, 78.75%, and 62.50%, respectively, while the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity with the physician's diagnosis were 63.33%, 66.25%, and 57.500. There was no significant difference between the diagnosis results of the proposed DL-based method and the radiologists' diagnostic approach in differentiating benign and malignant lung nodules on spiral CT (P< 0.05).

M Mode Assessment of Fetal Interventricular Septal Thickness in Third Trimester with Comparison Between Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Mothers

Background: Babies born to diabetic mothers face increased risks of illness and death despite advances in prenatal care. One common heart defect in these babies is interventricular septal hypertrophy. Objective: This study examines how gestational diabetes affects fetal interventricular septal thickness (IVST). Material &amp; Methods: The study took place at Sharda Hospital's Radiology Department over two months. Ninety pregnant women between 28 and 35 weeks of gestation were selected. The women were grouped based on oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results into non-diabetic (Subgroup A), controlled diabetic (Subgroup B), and uncontrolled diabetic (Subgroup C). IVST measurements were taken using M-mode during diastole. Results: The average age of participants was 26.41±3.18 years. In the 28-32 week group, the mean IVST was 3.76±0.23mm for non-diabetic women, 4.00±0.28mm for controlled diabetics, and 5.83±0.64mm for uncontrolled diabetics. In the 32-35 week group, the mean IVST was 4.25±0.29mm for non-diabetics, 4.75±0.43mm for controlled diabetics, and 6.84±0.34mm for uncontrolled diabetics. IVST was significantly higher in uncontrolled diabetics (p&lt;0.05), while non-diabetic and controlled diabetic groups had similar thicknesses. There was a significant positive correlation between OGTT levels and IVST (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Fetal IVST was notably higher in uncontrolled diabetic mothers. There is a strong association between OGTT results and IVST. M-mode measurement of IVST is simpler than fetal echocardiography and can be included in routine third-trimester scans for diabetic mothers to detect early signs of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

A 360-degree evaluation of the professionalism and communication skills of technologists working in the radiology department of a public sector tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan

BackgroundRadiologic technologists (RTs) are at the forefront of radiology departments and require optimal skills to demonstrate professionalism and effective provider–patient communication. Hence, the objective of this study was to determine the reliability of 360-degree evaluation as a feedback tool to improve competencies in this crucial workforce.MethodsA planned 360-degree evaluation was conducted using a 10-item tool to evaluate communication skills and professionalism among radiological technologists working at Dow University Hospital, Karachi. In total, 311 evaluations of fifteen radiological technologists were conducted while performing various diagnostic radiology procedures at the radiology department of Dow University Hospital. The data were analysed using SPSS version 26 to compute the evaluation scores and the reliability of 360-degree evaluation.ResultsA total of 311 RT-patient interactions were recorded over 48 days, with scores from all three raters. The evaluation tool was found to have good internal consistency for patients, faculty, and RT, with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.89, 087, and 0.74, respectively. The study found an intraclass correlation of 0.66 (95% CI; 0.58–0.72), showing moderate reliability of the 360-degree evaluation across different raters.ConclusionWe conclude that 360-degree evaluation is a valid and reliable tool for determining the professionalism and communication skills of radiologic technologists and should be incorporated into training programs for formative and summative assessments. However, large-scale multicenter studies are crucial for generalizing these findings and incorporating 360 evaluations in radiological technologist training programs for formative and summative assessments.

Puffed-Cheek CT Improved Evaluation of Buccal Mucosal Neoplasm in Contest to Conventional CT Scan

Background: Oral cancer is a frequent cancer in our country, most people are affected by this cancer are older age. Accurate evaluation of this cancer difficult due to close proximity of bones and soft tissue. So for improve diagnostic accuracy Puffed cheek maneuver should be used with traditional Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT).Objective: To determine the improved diagnostic accuracy of Puffed cheek Computed Tomography (PCCT) in evaluation of buccal mucosa tumors in contest to non puffed cheek Computed Tomography.Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross sectional study was carried out in Radiology and Imaging department of Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College and Hospital from 2022(January) to 2023(July). Cases were referred from different department. After meeting the inclusion criteria patients were subjected for CT scan. Imaging was performed from paranasal sinus and neck region with axial sections from pituitary fossa to arch of aorta, after injection of intravenous iodinated contrast media, multiplanar sagittal, coronal reformation images were obtained. Puffed cheek manoeuvre was performed to separate gingival and oral buccal mucosa in all the cases for improved detailed evaluation. The CT result were then compared with non puffed cheek scans results. Results: Among 30 patients 7 cases were missed by conventional CT scan, thirteen patients showed a mass in the oral cavity that were inseparable from 2 mucosal surfaces. Puffed-cheek images clearly showed the mass and surface of tumor involvement. Other 10 patients in conventional CT showed mass in the margins of tongue, oral cavity but extension and infiltration of surrounding structures by the lesion could not be well delineated, puffed-cheek images clearly showed the specific location, extension, adjacent muscles and other structures infiltration. Conclusion: Puffed cheek CT gives better performance to diagnosis the small buccal mucosal tumors, any irregularity, thickening, more detailing of mucosal surface of oral cavity than conventional CT scan, so can helps in choosing the management &amp; surgical approach also. KYAMC Journal Volume: 15, No: 01, April 2024: 29-32.

Attitudes, knowledge, and related factors on paediatric dental radiography among parents of children aged less than 13 years attended a tertiary care public dental hospital.

Dental radiography is an essential diagnostic tool in paediatric dentistry. To explore attitudes, knowledge, and related factors of paediatric dental radiography among parents who attended the radiology department of a premier public dental hospital. The study was conducted at the National Dental Hospital (Teaching) Sri Lanka among 124 parents whose children (<13-years) underwent dental radiographic examination. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, radiographic investigations, and parental knowledge and attitudes on paediatric dental radiography were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were entered and analyzed using the SPSS-21 statistical software package. The mean score (95% CI) of parental attitudes and knowledge on paediatric dental radiography were 17.55 (17.64-18.45) on a scale from 7 to 35 and 3.73 (3.34-4.13) on a scale from -7 to +7, respectively. Significant differences in parental knowledge were evident by child's age (p = 0.046), ethnicity (p = 0.035), and parental attitudes (p = 0.024). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed a significant independent association between parental attitudes with parental knowledge: OR (95% CI) = 2.413 (1.098-5.302) (p = 0.028). Parents demonstrated less favorable attitudes but sufficient knowledge on many aspects of paediatric dental radiography. Therefore, interventions are needed to improve parental attitudes on paediatric dental radiography especially by providing child-friendly services.

340 - Clinical audit of Radiology department in central government hospital of Nepal

340 - Clinical audit of Radiology department in central government hospital of Nepal

Predictors of anxiety in patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging scans: a multicenter cross-sectional study

BackgroundMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive diagnostic tool that is commonly used to visualize soft tissues and anatomical structures. Many patients who undergo MRI scans experience anxiety. This multicenter study was conducted to assess anxiety levels experienced by patients who underwent MRI scans in the Palestinian radiology departments and identify the risk factors associated with higher levels of anxiety experienced by the patients.MethodsThis multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in the radiology departments of different hospitals in the West Bank of Palestine using a questionnaire. The questionnaire collected different demographic data of the patients. A 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess the level of anxiety experienced by the patients who received MRI scans. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 28.ResultsA total of 383 patients participated in this study. Of the patients, 255 (66.6%) reported experiencing low, moderate, or high anxiety levels during the MRI scan. The median anxiety was 20.0 with an interquartile range (IQR) of 0.0–50.0 as measured using the 100-mm VAS. Higher anxiety levels were reported by the patients who were female (p-value < 0.001), unemployed (p-value = 0.009), and did not receive an MRI scan before (p-value = 0.001). In addition, the patients who received pelvis scans reported higher levels of anxiety compared to those who received scans for upper extremities (p-value = 0.031), abdomen (p-value = 0.033), pelvis (p-value = 0.043), and lower extremities (p-value = 0.016). In addition, the patients who received scans for the head/neck reported higher levels of anxiety compared to the patients who received scans for the lower extremities (p-value = 0.021).ConclusionThe findings of this study showed that a considerable proportion of the patients who received MRI scans in Palestinian hospitals experience anxiety. Radiologists and other decision-makers in the healthcare system should design effective measures to reduce anxiety and improve the experiences of patients who are female, unemployed, and those who are scheduled to receive MRI scans for the first time. Moreover, these interventions should particularly focus on the patients who are scheduled to receive scans for the pelvis and head/neck.

Paediatric medical imaging in Ireland- challenges, training, and the use of distraction techniques

The National Model of Care for Paediatric Healthcare Services, published in 2016, aims to ensure high-quality care for children across Ireland. However, with few exceptions, radiology departments in general hospitals “lack the necessary physical infrastructure, facilities, and staff training required for paediatrics.” These deficiencies can adversely affect a patient's behaviour and emotions, exacerbating fear of the healthcare system. This study sought to identify the challenges faced by radiographers in Ireland during paediatric imaging, with a focus on post-qualification training and the use of distraction techniques. A cross-sectional, qualitative online survey was conducted via Microsoft Forms, comprising 37 close-ended and eight open-ended questions on paediatric training, challenges, and distraction use. Ninety-six participants were recruited through snowball sampling from 26 hospitals and private clinics across Ireland. Only a small proportion of radiographers (n = 25, 26%) undertook post-qualification training in paediatric imaging, and many reported inadequate educational opportunities (n = 52, 60%). Patient cooperation (n = 45, 52%) and toddlers (n = 75, 90%) were identified as the most challenging aspect and age group, respectively. While distraction is commonly employed (n = 79, 91%), radiology departments often provide insufficient equipment (n = 65, 76%). The lack of equipment and training highlights the need for improvement in paediatric medical imaging services. The development of new training courses and distraction tools may enhance practice, ensuring the provision of high-quality paediatric care. Expanding radiographer training and implementing distraction tools may help paediatric patients better cope with the anxiety and stress associated with healthcare settings.

Radiological Protection Management: software implementation in a hospital in south Brazil

The exacerbated increase in the use of ionizing radiation to obtain images, and the risks and standards that exist to preserve the health of those who use it, are not properly taken into account when carrying out radiodiagnostic examinations. The professionals who work in these environments play a decisive role in the performance of their numerous activities within radiodiagnostic services, bearing in mind that any dose of radiation is associated with a probability of biological effects occurring, no matter how low that dose may be. Thus, the aim of building a software program was to optimize the work of the multiprofessional and interdisciplinary team in radiodiagnostic services, in the management of radiological protection. This is a methodological and quasi-experimental study carried out in a university hospital in southern Brazil, intentionally chosen because it has a Radiological Protection Committee. This research design was adopted for the development of technological production, in this case software for managing radiological protection. The study was carried out in the radiological protection sector of the radiology department of a university hospital in southern Brazil. The results showed that the software, called SisPRad - Management System for Radiological Protection, is a tool that helps the service's multi-professional and interdisciplinary team in terms of managing radiological protection. Finally, it aims to ensure the safety of professionals working in the service and its users, as well as reducing repetition of activities at management level, and can be adapted for other institutions. The computer registration number 512019002125-8 was obtained from the National Institute of Industrial Property for the first version of the software and the registration number 512023003116-0 for its second version.

Role of targeted ultrasound for the diagnosis of rib fracture, a comparative study with plain x-ray

Background and objective: Thoracic injuries are a common presentation in emergency hospitals in the Kurdistan region, mainly caused by road traffic accidents. Early and accurate diagnosis of rib fractures is essential in saving lives and preventing complications. The objective was to assess the validity of ultrasound in the diagnosis of rib fractures in comparison to plain x-ray. Methods: Present study was a cross-sectional study carried out in the Emergency department of Rozhalat Hospital in Erbil city-Kurdistan region/Iraq over ten months, from August 2021 to May 2022, on a sample of fifty-five (55) patients with suspected rib fractures. Rib fractures were diagnosed by the researcher based on clinical, ultrasound, and x-ray findings, and the findings of rib fracture were confirmed by CT-scan. All imaging methods were done at the Radiology department of Rozhalat hospital. Results: The validity findings of ultrasound examination taking CT scan as the gold standard was as follow: (97.7% sensitivity, 63.6% specificity, and 90.0% accuracy), while the validity findings of x-ray examination taking CT scan as the gold standard were (56.8% sensitivity, 54.5% specificity and 56.3% accuracy). The validity of ultrasound in detecting cortical disruption or hematoma was (93.8% sensitivity, 43.6% specificity, and 58.1% accuracy), while the validity of CXR in the detection of displacement was (31.3% sensitivity, 84.6% specificity, and 48.7% accuracy). Conclusion: Sonograph is an accurate diagnostic tool for detecting rib fracture with superior validity compared to a chest x-ray.

Study on the clinical value of computed tomography angiography in the diagnosis of aortic aneurysm

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to explore the clinical value of computed tomography angiography (CTA) in the diagnosis of aortic aneurysm.MethodsThe imaging data of 60 patients suspected of having aortic aneurysms who were examined in the Radiology Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from April 2017 to April 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. CTA and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were used to examine the patients, and CTA image findings were collected and compared with DSA findings.ResultsThere was no significant difference in the accuracy of diagnosing aortic aneurysms (P > 0.05) between DSA [98.33% (59/60)] and CTA [95.00% (57/60)]. There was no significant difference in the diagnosis of image features (e.g., typing, site, form) of aortic aneurysms (P > 0.05).ConclusionCTA can be used to successfully confirm if patients suffer from an aortic aneurysm; it produces quality images with high specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy and can be promoted in clinical practice.

Optimizing Prostate Imaging Practices in Saudi Arabian Hospitals: A Comprehensive Analysis of PI-RADS Compliance in Multiparametric MRI.

Prostate cancer, a significant contributor to male cancer mortality globally, demands improved diagnostic strategies. In Saudi Arabia, where the incidence is expected to double, this study assessed the compliance of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) practices with Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI-RADS v2) guidelines across diverse healthcare institutions. A survey was distributed to the radiology departments of all tertiary referral hospitals in Saudi Arabia (n=60) to assess their compliance with the technical specifications outlined in PI-RADS v2. Statistical analysis included chi-square, Fisher exact, ANOVA, and Student t-tests to examine the collected data. The study revealed an overall commendable compliance rate of 95.23%. However, significant variations were observed in technical parameters, particularly between 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla scanners and tertiary versus non-tertiary hospitals. Notable adherence in certain sequences contrasted with discrepancies in T2-weighted and diffusion-weighted imaging parameters. These findings underscore the need for nuanced approaches to optimize prostate imaging protocols, considering field strength and institutional differences. The study contributes to the ongoing refinement of standardized mpMRI practices, aiming to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve clinical outcomes in prostate cancer.

A Prospective Study of Hepatic Vein Waveform, Damping Index, and Splenoportal Index in Liver Cirrhosis: Correlation with Child-Pugh Score

Background:Chronic liver disease evaluation is commonly conducted using the Child-Pugh and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scoring systems. While the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) is the gold standard for measuring portal hypertension in cirrhotic patients, non-invasive alternatives such as Doppler ultrasonography offer a cost-effective, rapid, and less invasive option for assessment. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between hepatic vein waveform patterns, damping index, splenoportal index, and the Child-Pugh score in patients with liver cirrhosis to evaluate the efficacy of Doppler ultrasound as a non-invasive diagnostic tool. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Radiology Department of a public teaching hospital in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from December 2023 to June 2024. A total of 52 patients with liver cirrhosis were included after excluding those with incomplete data or confounding conditions. Doppler ultrasound was used to assess hepatic vein waveform patterns, damping index, and splenoportal index. The Child-Pugh score was calculated based on clinical and laboratory parameters. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with a p-value of &lt;0.05 considered significant. The chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, ANOVA, and ROC curve analyses were utilized for data evaluation. Results: The final cohort consisted of 52 patients, with 39 males (75%) and 13 females (25%). The mean age was 55.3 years. The damping index showed a significant increase from Child-Pugh Class A (0.45 ± 0.10) to Class C (0.75 ± 0.15) (p=0.003). The splenoportal index also demonstrated a significant rise from Class A (1.4 ± 0.3) to Class C (2.0 ± 0.5) (p=0.015). The sensitivity and specificity of the damping index (&gt; 0.6) in predicting higher Child-Pugh scores (B + C) were 52.6% and 85.7%, respectively, with a positive predictive value of 90.9%. Conclusion: The study found strong correlations between the severity of liver cirrhosis, as assessed by the Child-Pugh score, and Doppler ultrasound parameters such as hepatic vein waveforms and the damping index. Doppler ultrasound, therefore, presents itself as a precise, non-invasive alternative for evaluating the severity of liver disease, potentially replacing more invasive procedures.

Mapping and Deep Analysis of Hospital Radiology Department to Identify Workflow Challenges and Their Potential Digital Solutions

The increasing use of imaging services and continuous technological advancement require regular optimisation of the hospital’s radiology department. Assessing stakeholders to find realistic challenges is an essential step towards achieving the desired quadruple aim (reducing costs, increasing quality of care and improving patient and clinician experience) in healthcare. The statistical gaps explored and the evidence in the literature justify the need for continuous and rapid assessment, identification of challenges, identification of trends and subsequent search for solutions in each radiology department. We have found an average increase of 7.3 per cent annually in reported computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and interventional radiology services over the last 10 years, but the number of radiologists has only increased by 2 per cent per year. In Germany, the statistics show a continuous increase in examinations per radiologist with a compound annual growth rate of 4.68 per cent. This article presents a pathway for planning, evaluating and subsequently improving individual radiology departments using a transdisciplinary approach to innovation. The transdisciplinary innovation approach was applied with 36 young innovation fellows with multidisciplinary knowledge from different global locations (Germany, India, China, UAE and USA). As part of our transdisciplinary approach, a qualitative approach was used to collect challenges during hospital visits. We identified over 100 key challenges and 10 healthcare trends from the clinical area. We developed templates for mapping the status quo, trends and challenges in radiology for each radiology department as a tool for assessment. We believe that the proposed transdisciplinary methodology, the resulting radiology model, the template(s) and the proposed digital infrastructure will be useful in the future mapping and optimisation of radiology departments.